Vol. 524 No. 6
191 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development whether there is unimpeded access to all European markets for Irish meat and beef products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23658/00]
194 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he has satisfied himself that the Irish meat industry is in an adequate position to compete favourably in all international markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23661/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 191 and 194 together.
Ireland enjoys uninterrupted access for beef exports to all member states of the European Union and to all of our traditionally important markets worldwide. I am actively pursuing the small number of markets, both in Europe and elsewhere, where market access problems for Irish beef still exist.
I am satisfied that Irish beef exporters are competitive on the international market, although I am concerned that the current commission policy on export refunds could adversely affect our competitive position relative to other third country suppliers. I have made known my concerns on this matter to Commissioner Fischler. However, I would encourage Irish beef exporters to refocus their efforts on the European market which, I believe, represents the most stable long-term outlet for Irish beef.
While my Department, in conjunction with Bord Bia, will continue to assist the Irish beef industry to exploit market opportunities, it is, however, primarily a matter for the industry itself to capitalise on the high quality of its product in securing export contracts. I am satisfied that the Irish beef industry is well positioned to maintain and increase its market share.
192 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development whether Irish dairy products have continued ready access to all markets within the European Union without restriction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23659/00]
There is no restriction on the export of Irish dairy products to any markets within the EU.
193 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he has satisfied himself that, arising from Agenda 2000, sufficient scope exists to facilitate the agriculture sector in all aspects in the matter of competitively supplying world markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23660/00]
199 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he has satisfied himself that EU support for Irish agriculture will be sufficient to give adequate support to the industry in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23666/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 199 together.
As a result of the highly favourable outcome of the Agenda 2000 negotiations on the reform of the CAP, it is estimated that some £10 billion will be provided by the EU over the period 2000-2006 to fund market supports including export refunds, premia, REPS payments, farmer retirement payments and compensatory allowances in disadvantaged areas. In addition, the National Development Plan 2000-2006, involving total public expenditure of £900 million, towards which the EU will contribute some £110 million, will fund measures to improve the structure and competitiveness of the agriculture and food industries.
Because of changes which may result from the enlargement of the EU and from the WTO negotiations, as well as factors such as changing consumer tastes, new food distribution channels and general technological developments, I established a group to make recommendations on the development of the Irish agriculture and food industries over the present decade. That group's report entitled "Agri Food 2010", was completed earlier this year and I have approved and published a plan of action for the implementation of its recommendations.
As a result of the Agenda 2000 negotiations, the measures provided for in the national development plan and the implementation of the 2010 plan of action, I am satisfied that a sound foundation has been laid for the development of the agriculture and food industries over the current decade.
Question No. 194 taken with Question No. 191.
